The Women in Science, Engineering and Technology group at the University of Southampton is named after “Theano”, a Greek mathematician who, along with her husband Pythagoras, opened the first co-educational university in 600BC. This school was based on equality between the sexes. As a mathematician she derived the rule for golden geometry.
Theano evolved from a branch of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) which was set up and thrived in the early 1990s at the University of Southampton.
Theano works closely with the Athena project to promote the advancement of women in science, engineering and technology in higher education. Through education, mentoring support and engaged networking, Theano strives to serve all members, so they can achieve their full potential. Theano also works closely with employers and other organisations.
Theano is a networking group which brings together women from all the different faculties and academic units at the University of Southampton. These include the faculty of Engineering and Environment, the faculty of Physical and Applied Science and the faculty of Natural and Environmental Science. Membership is free and automatic for female undergraduates, post-graduates, academics and members of staff. Everyone from the University is welcome at our meetings.